Child pornography charges filed against children's performer

SPRINGFIELD -- A man who was a former minister and police officer, and who has worked as a clown, is in federal custody after being charged with possessing child pornography and traveling overseas to engage in sexual activities with a minor.

Amon Paul Carlock, 57, of Springfield was arrested Tuesday and was ordered held in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending a preliminary hearing scheduled for Friday.

An investigation of Carlock's activities was sparked after his return on June 12 from the Philippines. Upon his arrival at San Francisco International Airport, Carlock told immigration and homeland security officers he had been working as a clown at the House of Joy orphanage in San Isidro.

The Philippines is a country considered to be high-risk for child sex tourism. Because Carlock had direct contact with children, the officers asked to look at Carlock's digital camera and his computer, according to U.S. Attorney Rodger Heaton. When they searched the computers, they allegedly found numerous pictures of nude boys.

A federal search warrant executed Sept. 28 at Carlock's Springfield residence turned up compact discs which contained movies depicting child pornography, according to authorities.

"This case reveals the disturbing truth that some adults will go to great lengths to sexually exploit children," said Elissa Brown of Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Carlock goes by the name of "Klutzo the Clown" and "Professor Paul the Magician" when he performs, according to the U.S. attorney's office. His web site claims Carlock is an ordained minister.

Federal authorities said Carlock spent more than 20 years in law enforcement.

Carlock volunteered with Big Brothers/Big Sisters for about two months before he came under investigation.

Denise Corcoran-Schainker of Big Brothers/Big Sisters said the organization runs three background checks on its volunteers, and all of his background checks cleared. She added the organization was fortunate the federal investigation came when it did.